By: Independent

Africa’s largest carrier, Ethiopian Airlines, has taken a significant step to expand its cargo operations following the signing of lease agreements with AerCap Holdings N.V. for two state-of-the-art Boeing 777-300ERSF converted freighters.

The agreement, announced by the airline, will see the delivery of the aircraft in the second quarter of 2028, marking a historic milestone as the first time this variant – popularly known as “The Big Twin” – will be deployed in Africa.

The addition of the 777-300ERSF aircraft is expected to significantly bolster Ethiopian Airlines’ cargo capacity, reinforcing its dominance in Africa’s rapidly expanding air freight sector.

With global demand for cargo services on the rise – driven by e-commerce growth, supply chain shifts, and increased intra-African trade – the airline is positioning itself at the forefront of logistics innovation on the continent.

Group Chief Executive Officer, Mesfin Tasew, described the deal as a strategic milestone that aligns with the airline’s long-term vision.
“We are delighted to partner with AerCap to bring the first Boeing 777-300ERSF to Africa. These aircraft will significantly enhance our cargo capacity and efficiency, boosting trade in the region,” he said.

He further emphasised the airline’s commitment to investing in modern and sustainable aviation solutions that will consolidate its standing in the global cargo market.

Industry experts note that the Boeing 777-300ERSF offers substantial operational advantages. Compared to smaller twin-engine long-haul freighters currently in service, the aircraft delivers approximately 25 per cent more cargo capacity, alongside improved fuel efficiency and lower operating costs per tonne.

For Ethiopian Airlines, which operates one of the most extensive cargo networks in Africa, the new aircraft will enhance its ability to serve high-demand routes linking Africa with Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

Chief Executive Officer of AerCap, Aengus Kelly, underscored the importance of the agreement, describing it as a continuation of a strong and enduring partnership.
“We are delighted to deepen our long-standing partnership with Ethiopian Airlines – the first customer to operate this aircraft type in Africa – through this important transaction,” Kelly stated.

He added that the aircraft’s superior economics would enable the airline to scale its cargo platform more efficiently while strengthening its competitive advantage in global logistics.

The introduction of the 777-300ERSF freighters is expected to have far-reaching implications for trade across Africa. By increasing cargo capacity and improving logistics efficiency, the aircraft will support the movement of goods ranging from perishables and pharmaceuticals to industrial equipment.

Ethiopian Airlines has, in recent years, emerged as a critical player in facilitating trade under frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), leveraging its Addis Ababa hub as a central gateway for cargo distribution.

With the latest acquisition, the airline is not only reinforcing its leadership in Africa’s aviation sector but also contributing to the continent’s broader economic integration and global competitiveness.

As the 2028 delivery timeline approaches, industry observers expect Ethiopian Airlines to further expand its cargo infrastructure, including warehousing, cold chain logistics, and digital tracking systems, to maximise the benefits of the new fleet addition.

The deal with AerCap signals a clear intent: to remain ahead in an increasingly competitive global cargo market while continuing to drive Africa’s connectivity and trade ambitions through innovation and strategic investment.